Manitoba Sustainable Development advises that due to unstable weather conditions expected today, including high temperatures and very strong winds, a total ban on campfires in Stephenfield Provincial Park in southwestern Manitoba is in place, effective immediately.
In most other provincial parks in the Interlake and Eastern areas of the province, campfires will only be allowed in approved pits, between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. If you have camping plans, be sure to check at the campground office to be sure what restrictions may be in place as local conditions may change quickly. These restrictions are precautionary, and will be reviewed once the weather system passes and conditions can be re-assessed.
Local municipalities may also implement burning bans or fire restrictions.
For further general information on the fire status, maps, restrictions, burning permit cancellations or other restrictions, go to www.gov.mb.ca/wildfire.
Anyone using an ATV in areas where back-country travel is permitted should stay on developed trails, stop frequently to check areas around the engine and exhaust for debris, and carefully dispose of any debris caught in equipment. A small shovel, axe, and fire extinguisher should be carried with your ATV at all times.
Open fires are prohibited from April 1 to Nov. 15, except under a burning permit or in enclosed, approved fire pits such as grated campfire pits in provincial campsites. Activities in wooded areas involving fireworks or sky lanterns may also require written authorization during this time period.
